In this context it may seem a little out of trend to look at Japan as a destination for UG or Graduate studies. Not so if one considers these compelling reasons.1. Centers of Excellence - Universities!Japan is a leader when it comes to technology & science. Needless to say, a country’s technological prowess stems from its universities. Same can be said of other fields (Arts) as well. Here are some very interesting facts about Japanese universities that reinforce their top standing in the global academic stage.a.In the Q&S Top 100 Asian Universities 2015, there are 19 Japanese universities.b. Quality of Japanese universities is further reinforced by the fact that Japanese universities find places of honor in the Top 100 universities of the world (Shangrila Ranking 2014).

3. Multiple Scholarships on Offer! Japanese universities offer a host of scholarships to aspiring students. Here is a brief list,a. Monbukagakusho – MEXT scholarships – From the Japanese Govtb. JASSO - Japan Student Services Organization.c.Local Govt & International Associations.d. Private foundations. e. According to JASSO, 51.4% of the students who come to Japan for studies receive a scholarship!

4. Attractive Cost of Pursuing Higher StudiesAbout half of what an Indian student would pay in the west! According to Kodama San ( First Secretary, Embassy of Japan, India) the annual cost of higher studies in a Japanese university ranges from ₹10 lakh to ₹13 lakh (including hostel fees).

5. Japanese Language – As the medium of instruction!a.Don’t throw in the towel yet! There are few universities that do offer English as the medium of instruction.b. However to take full advantage of this particular higher study mission, it would be wise to learn Japanese & choose the same a the medium of instruction.

6. Career OpportunitiesStudying in a Japanese university with Japanese as the medium of instruction, opens up a host of unique career opportunities in Japanese companies & eventually in their Indian subsidiaries.

7. ExposureA job exposure is a Japanese company (in Japan) is an invaluable asset for any one. The work culture, work ethics, quality & process orientation that one acquires in Japanese companies is highly valued all over the world. The career benefits that come with such an experience tag is unmatched.

8. Favorable ImmigrationJapanese government is currently favorably disposed to increasing immigration.

9. SafetyUnquestionably, Japan is one of the safest place on the planet to study, work etc.

10. Quality of LifeJapan offers an exceptionally great quality of life in every sense of the term & a very rich cultural experience. This leaves one enriched over a life time.